My Wishlist

Summer Jams

Summer Jams.. Digital Release Date.. August 07, 2013....
“Ultimately, what Steven Sean Cohen has put forth with Summer Jams is a tracklist that represents who he truly is as an artist. There’s a lot of passion and a very honest approach to songwriting"

ABOUT THIS ALBUM

Album Notes

"Summer Jam" features 9 new original songs by Steven Sean Cohen + Elton Costello Band. The album is upbeat just like the best times of the season. Great for road trips or chillin' at home on a warm afternoon. The collection also includes a cover in honor of Mr. Michael Jackson.. "I Want You Back". A tribute to Adele is also included with a cover of "Rolling In The Deep."

“Ultimately, what Steven Sean Cohen has put forth with Summer Jams is a tracklist that represents who he truly is as an artist. There’s a lot of passion and a very honest approach to the songwriting and performance on this record.”

Artist: Steven Sean Cohen + Elton Costello Band

Album: Summer Jams

Genre: Pop

RIYL: Warren Zevon, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel

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I’m not sure exactly what I expected when I read the preview for Steven Sean Cohen’s bio; while he’s definitely characterized by the classic definition of the Philly pop sound, Cohen’s distinct vocal style makes Summer Jams a more complicated listen than a simple pop offering. And with a repertoire that includes nine originals that skew something like a cross between Warren Zevon by way of Bruce Springsteen, what’s also surprising is the inclusion of two covers by The Jackson Five and Adele.

Steven Sean Cohen’s songs feel like they’re readymade for what would be an entertaining and crowd-pleasing live show. The songwriting leans towards what I described above as the Philly pop sound, which includes a touch of R&B and classic soul that’s embedded in the local scene, with the addition of piano and keys helping to propel the melodies forward. Cohen’s raspy tone, at times, distracts from the classic feel of that piano-driven pop sound, but this also offers the listener an interesting dichotomy of tone and feel.

“We Ain’t Waiting” finds Cohen losing some of the raspiness in favor of a clearer tone, and one that definitely suits the song style, taking on a more classic Springsteen or Billy Joel-esque tone. “Lick My Plate” also stands out; the suggestive overtones certainly aren’t subtle, but what’s most interesting is the arrangement and rhythmic quality of the track. “Don’t Say Goodbye” is also a standout, one of those songs that’s easily relatable with a toe-tapping groove and winning vocal work.

I’d be remiss not to mention the vastly different take that Cohen presents of modern classic “Rolling in the Deep.” This seems like the type of cover that will either elicit a love-it-or-leave-it reaction in listeners; but the unique interpretation Cohen presents is a creative risk that’s to be applauded. “I Want You Back” is a little more straightforward, and works exceedingly well with Cohen’s own songwriting style. There’s a comfort level to the performance, which is definitely more rock-tinged than the original, that breathes life into a song everyone knows.

Ultimately, what Steven Sean Cohen has put forth with Summer Jams is a tracklist that represents who he truly is as an artist. There’s a lot of passion and a very honest approach to the songwriting and performance on this record. That comes through very clearly; Cohen writes his music for himself and from a place that gives him personal satisfaction expressing himself creatively. This is a labor of love, and it shows.